Doncaster bound commuter train pelted with missiles

Darren Burke

Passengers on a Doncaster bound commuter train escaped unhurt when it was pelted with heavy objects earlier this evening.

The 16.53 Northern Rail service between Sheffield and Adwick was struck by several missiles after passing under a footbridge shortly after 5pm.

The train had just left Rotherham Central and was en route to Swinton when passengers were subjected to a series of loud bangs.

One passenger said: "The train was just coming out of Rotherham when there were massive crashing sounds on the roof.

"Everyone sat up and took notice and there were a few gasps from some of the passengers because the bangs were pretty loud."

A group of youths could be spotted running from a footbridge over the railway line shortly afterwards.

It is not known what damage the train sustained, but it was able to continue its journey onto Swinton, Mexborough, Conisbrough, Doncaster, Bentley and Adwick on time and no passengers were hurt in the incident.

Several attacks on trains by yobs with bricks have taken place in recent years.

Anyone with information should contact British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40.